At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead risk-based audits and provide assurance to senior leaders in a high-hazard environment.
- Company: Join the Office for Nuclear Regulation, the UK's independent nuclear regulator.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to influence and improve organisational practices.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and governance in the nuclear industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in internal audit and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25674 - 28093 £ per year.
Location: Bootle, Cheltenham, London
Job Purpose: The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) is the UK’s independent nuclear regulator, responsible for ensuring that the nuclear industry controls its hazards effectively and maintains the highest standards of safety, security and safeguards.
About The Role: As a Senior Assurance Lead, you will lead and deliver risk-based audit engagements across ONR’s regulatory and corporate functions. You will act as a trusted advisor and critical friend, providing insight, challenge and assurance to senior leaders, helping to ensure effective decision‑making in a complex, high‑hazard regulatory environment. ONR operates a Three Lines of Defence model and you will perform Internal Assurance reviews in line with the second line of defence and Regulatory Assurance reviews acting on behalf of the third line of defence.
Principal Responsibilities:
- Deliver end‑to‑end internal assurance assignments, including planning, fieldwork, reporting and follow‑up, in line with professional standards.
- Develop and execute risk‑based audit plans, aligned to ONR’s strategic risks and priorities.
- Provide independent assurance on governance, risk management and internal control effectiveness, including undertaking embedded assurance reviews.
- Produce clear, concise and impactful internal assurance reports with practical recommendations to senior stakeholders.
- Build strong relationships across ONR to influence and support continuous improvement.
- Monitor and track implementation of audit recommendations, ensuring timely resolution of findings.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of assurance methodology, tools and practices.
- Support ad hoc reviews, investigations and advisory work as required.
- Promote a strong culture of risk awareness, accountability and learning across the organisation.
Line Management Responsibilities:
As part of this role there will be an expectation to manage staff.
Location / Travel:
This post may be undertaken from a base at any one of ONR’s office locations (Bootle, Cheltenham, or London). ONR operates hybrid working (working in the office and or at home) as part of our flexible working policy. There is an expectation that everyone will spend time in the office on a regular basis.
Inclusion:
We are committed to being an inclusive employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We will consider reasonable adjustments to ensure the recruitment process is inclusive and barrier‑free. If you require reasonable adjustments as part of your application, please contact ONR HR as soon as possible, preferably before the vacancy closes, by emailing ONR.Human-Resources@onr.gov.uk or francesca.fay@onr.gov.uk to discuss further. We will also offer an interview to disabled people and to Veterans who meet the minimum criteria for the respective guaranteed interview schemes.
Security Clearance: SC
Essential Criteria:
- Demonstrable experience delivering internal audit or assurance reviews in a complex organisation.
- Strong understanding of risk management, governance and internal control frameworks.
- Proven ability to analyse complex information and make risk‑based judgements.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
- Experience of building effective relationships and providing constructive challenge.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to deadlines.
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience within a regulated industry.
- Knowledge of government risk frameworks (e.g. Orange Book).
- Experience of data analytics tools to support audit delivery.
Qualifications:
- Chartered Internal Auditor (CIA)
- CCAB‑qualified accountant (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Band 3 Senior Internal Assurance Lead employer: OFFICE FOR NUCLEAR REGULATION
The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bootle, Cheltenham, or London, where you can make a meaningful impact on public safety and regulatory standards. With a strong commitment to employee development, ONR promotes a culture of continuous improvement and inclusivity, providing opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work collaboratively with senior leaders in a high-stakes industry. Enjoy the benefits of hybrid working arrangements, a supportive team atmosphere, and the satisfaction of contributing to the safety and security of the nuclear sector.
Contact Details:
OFFICE FOR NUCLEAR REGULATION Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 3 Senior Internal Assurance Lead
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
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✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
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We think you need these skills to ace Band 3 Senior Internal Assurance Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
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Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at OFFICE FOR NUCLEAR REGULATION. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at OFFICE FOR NUCLEAR REGULATION
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with OFFICE FOR NUCLEAR REGULATION’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
